If you are reading this blog, you most likely already know how a professional headshot can enhance your brand and make you stand out. But, in our digitally connected, image-first world, headshots are only part of the marketing puzzle. Personal branding photography is another way for potential clients and connections to fill in the blanks about you, your personality, and your business. It’s a means of visual storytelling that connects on a deeper level.
Your personal branding photos need to convey three key factors:
- They need to show off your vibe. Are you friendly and artistic, or stoic and studious?
- You want your photos to communicate what you and your brand can offer your audience.
- Personal branding pictures need to tell a story. How do you spend your day? What inspires you?
The Authentic You
We live in a world of “authentic marketing.” Getting a new customer to believe in you and your business truly requires a deeper connection. That is why having photos that show you as relatable and real will help you gain loyalty from consumers that feel good about uniting themselves with your brand. Sometimes, simple props that align with your personality or inspiring locations can give your audience the extra push to resonate with you.
What You Offer
Just as important as pulling back the curtain of your personality is conveying what you offer. It may seem daunting to “show” this in an image compared to words, but it can be accomplished with the right photographer. This is another opportunity to use props and locations as communicators, but it shouldn’t be the only way you share this message. Like headshots, the way you dress, the way you are positioned, and the lighting used will tell your customer plenty about what kind of business you are in.
Your Story in Pictures
Your brand imagery is inviting your audience into your life to learn your story. For example, our lovely entrepreneur below. You may not have any idea what kind of business she is in (yet), but from these powerful images alone, you can conclude that she is passionate about what she does, she works hard, and she loves fashion. Now, it is up to the client to use these images as she chooses on her website and social media. Still, she appears approachable, professional, authentic, and makes an outstanding impression from only the photos.
Just as with headshots, it is imperative that you hire a photographer that specializes in personal branding. The right branding photographer will assist you in determining how you want your brand to be represented, tailor your images towards a specific audience, and help you create the perfect story.
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